JP2015531632A - Apparatus and method for assessing knee flexor muscles - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for assessing the strength of at least one knee flexor of a subject includes a support and two securing members that secure each of the subject's lower legs in a position that is substantially secured to the support during use. And at least one sensor that senses, during use, a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor of at least one leg of the subject while the subject performs extensible contraction of at least one knee flexor.

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus for use in evaluating the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of a subject, and in one example, while the subject performs extensible contraction of the knee flexor muscle, The present invention relates to an apparatus for evaluating hamstring strength.

  References in this specification to any prior art (or information derived therefrom) or well-known technology refer to general knowledge in the technical field to which the well-known art or prior art (or information derived therefrom) belongs. Is not intended to recognize, approve, and present, and should not be construed as such.

  Hamstring muscle separation (HSI) is common to amateurs and elite athletes participating in many sports, including sprinting, soccer, and football. In addition, following the first HSI, the proportion of patients who relapse is high, and the next HSI recovery period becomes longer.

  A number of studies have been conducted on factors that affect patient sensitivity to HSI, as well as an environment that can reduce patient recovery and risk of recurrence. For example, Arnason et al. According to 'Prevention of hamstring strains in elite soccer: an intervention study' (2008) 18 Scand J Med Sci Sports, an increase in hamstring muscle stretch contraction reduces the incidence of HSI. It was theorized to do. Similarly, WO 03/094732 suggests that repeated periods of hamstring muscle extension exercise can reduce patient sensitivity to HSI. The document also discloses an example of an apparatus for performing an extension movement including a padded board and an ankle strap.

  Despite the conclusions drawn from these studies, existing methods and devices for quantitatively assessing knee flexor strength, such as hamstring strength, are not widely used due to many inherent limitations. For example, the current most standard device for performing a hamstring muscle strength assessment is based on an isokinetic dynamometer, typically in the laboratory. During the evaluation, the subject sits with the ankle fixed to the rotatable arm so as to detect the torque applied by the leg when rotating the arm while controlling the maximum rotation speed with a dynamometer. However, isokinetic dynamometers are expensive, require a skilled operator and are difficult to move. Also, sufficient time is required to evaluate each leg of the subject. Therefore, they are primarily used for research purposes and to the extent that they are sometimes used by elite athletes or sports teams to assess higher risk players with HSI or to monitor the progress of rehabilitation. Also, in some sport support organizations, isokinetic dynamometers themselves are considered to pose a risk of flesh.

  International Publication No. WO 03/094732 is for assessing muscle sensitivity to damage during stretch contraction, including a torque measurement device to obtain a measurement of torque generated by the muscle at different angles of stretch. The apparatus is described. A computer connected to the torque measuring device receives and processes the torque measurements and uses computer software to assess sensitivity to damage. Computer software is a data receiving component for receiving measurements on the torque generated by the muscle at different angles of stretch, generated if the muscle is not sensitive to damage during stretch contractions A comparison data component for storing comparison data representing the expected measurement value of torque, an evaluation for comparing the received measurement value with the comparison data to identify the difference in torque measurement value at the same angle of expansion Component.

  US Pat. No. 5,662,591 teaches an apparatus for performing physical therapy exercises to strengthen a subject's limbs and for measuring the strength of the limbs. The device has a pair of pivot clamps, each having an end for connecting the pivot clamp to a stationary object such as a physical therapy table or hospital bed. The second end of each pivot clamp receives an adjustable first frame member of a conventional traction or load frame. With this configuration, the first frame member held by the pivot clamp relative to each pivot clamp can be rotated and translated, and the frame can be arranged at a desired position and direction with respect to the subject's limbs. The second frame member is adjustably coupled to the pair of first frame members by a pair of adjustable brackets. A limb engaging member having a force transducer disposed therein is used to engage the subject's limb and detect the force transmitted between the subject's limb and the limb engaging member. The force transducer generates an output representing the generated force, which is displayed on a digital panel meter.

  US Pat. No. 3,285,070 discloses an invention relating to a device adapted for use in a physical development and / or rehabilitation program. More specifically, the invention relates to an apparatus for assessing and increasing the strength of various muscles or muscle groups of the human body.

  U.S. Pat. No. 3,374,675 discloses an ergometer or isometric muscle test device, in particular, the physical strength of the muscles of the physical movement is determined at the beginning of the joint movement of the body part and the limb of the body part to which the muscle is to be tested. Or at least an invention relating to a device to be tested with another remote part is disclosed. This test of the human body is often referred to as an isometric muscle test, and two examples of its most common use are muscle tests during physical therapy and during physical exercise.

  U.S. Pat. No. 4,889,108 discloses a lever arm, a mounting device for mounting a lever arm for rotation about a fixed axis, and rotation about a selected anatomical axis of rotation. A coupling device for coupling a selected part of the human body to the lever arm. The coupling device provides a fixed tangent and sliding mount and allows a free radial movement of the position of the patient attachment with respect to the axis of rotation of the lever arm. A speed control device coupled to the lever arm limits the speed according to a predetermined speed control function. The radial distance from the attachment position to the axis of rotation is measured and used in the speed control function. The range of movement restriction is set in one embodiment by a potentiometer and a push button for each restriction position, and limits the storage of configurations in other embodiments.

  U.S. Pat. No. 4,909,262 teaches an apparatus that utilizes a clamping mechanism to hold a rotating human limb. The mechanical arm is link-engaged with the clamp mechanism and is rotatably coupled to the pivot member. The angular rotation of the mechanical arm around the pivot member is measured simultaneously with the force exerted by the human limb rotating on the clamping mechanism. A strain gauge is link-engaged to the clamping mechanism and provides a measurement of this force.

  The above disclosure has many drawbacks, including substantial size or weight that is inconvenient to carry, and spends a lot of time on evaluation, so it can't do many screenings like the whole sports team . Also, the method and apparatus described above cannot give a simultaneous assessment of the hamstring muscle strength of both feet, that is, an assessment of hamstring muscle strength of both feet individually or during both foot exercises. It was. In addition, existing techniques have had problems with measurement reliability and repeatability during extremity imbalance.

  The object of the present invention is to improve one or more of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art.

In a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for evaluating the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of a subject. The device is
a) support,
b) two fixation members for fixing each of the subject's lower legs in a position that is substantially fixed in use relative to the support;
c) at least one sensor for detecting, in use, a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor of at least one leg of the subject while the subject is performing an extensible contraction of at least one knee flexor; Have

  Typically, at least one sensor is coupled to at least one of the two securing members, and the sensor detects the force exerted on the subject's lower leg.

  Typically, the at least one sensor includes two sensors, each sensor being coupled with a respective fixation member and sensing a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject.

  Typically, during use, the sensor simultaneously senses a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject.

  Typically, during use, the sensor detects a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject at different times.

  Typically, at least one securing member is attached to the sensor.

  Typically, the securing member is coupled to the support.

  Typically, the fixing member is movably mounted on the support.

  Typically, the support has at least one knee support that supports at least one knee of the subject during use.

  Typically, the knee support is movably mounted on the support.

Typically, the device is
a) monitor the signal from at least one sensor,
b) using the signal at least in part to generate an indicator indicating the strength of at least one hamstring of at least one knee flexor;
Includes electronic processing equipment.

Typically, the indicator
a) Instantaneous force b) Force generation speed c) Average force d) Peak force e) Impulse f) Action g) Instantaneous torque h) Torque generation speed i) Average torque j) Change in force with time k) Change in torque with time l) Indicates at least one of the peak torques.

Typically, an electronic processing device is
a) comparing at least part of the signal with reference data;
b) Generate an indicator according to the result of the comparison.

Typically, the baseline data is
a) Tolerance determined from the regular population,
b) a predetermined range;
c) predetermined criteria d) last generated indicator,
e) includes at least one of the indicators generated for the other leg.

Typically, the indicator
a) at least part of the signal and reference data;
b) Show at least part of the signal and the difference between the reference data.

  Typically, the device includes an output for providing at least an indicator to the subject.

Typically, the output is
a) Light emitting diode (LED)
b) an acoustic member,
c) Digital display d) At least one of electronic signal emitting members.

Typically, the output is
a) Light b) Sound c) At least one alphabetic character d) Graph e) Picture f) Wireless electronic signal g) At least one of the wired electronic signals is generated.

  Typically, the device includes an input that allows a user to enter data.

Typically, the input section is
a) Keypad b) Keyboard c) Touch screen d) Button e) At least one switch.

  Typically, the support is elongate, the securing member is provided at the first end, and the second end supports the weight of the subject.

Typically, the sensor
a) Load cell b) Force plate c) Piezo force sensor d) Strain gauge e) One of the water pressure gauges.

  Typically, the sensor detects either compressive force or tension.

Typically, the securing member is
a) Strap b) Cuff c) Have one of the straps.

  Typically, the sensor detects a force indicative of hamstring strength of at least one leg of the subject while the subject is performing a Nordic hamstring exercise.

  Typically, at least one knee flexor includes at least a hamstring muscle.

In a second aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for use in evaluating a subject's muscle strength. The device is
a) support,
b) two fixation members that constrain each movement of the lower leg of the subject relative to the support;
c) having at least one sensor that detects during use a force indicative of muscle strength while performing a muscle exercise that exerts some sort of force.

In a third aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for evaluating a subject's hamstring muscle strength using a device having a support, two fixation members, and at least one sensor. The method is
a) securing both the lower legs of the subject in a position that is substantially secured in use to the support using a securing member;
b) sensing a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of at least one leg of the subject using a sensor while the subject is performing at least a stretch contraction of the hamstring muscle.

  Typically, at least one sensor has two sensors, each sensor coupled to a fixed member, and the method detects a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject. Have to do.

  Typically, the method includes simultaneously detecting a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle in each leg of the subject.

  Typically, the method includes detecting a force indicative of the strength of a hamstring muscle while the subject is performing a Nordic hamstring exercise.

Typically, the apparatus further comprises an electronic processing device, the method comprising:
a) monitoring the signal from at least one sensor;
b) using the signal at least in part to generate an indicator indicative of at least hamstring strength relative to the hamstring muscle.

Typically, the method involves
a) comparing at least part of the signal with reference data;
b) generating an indicator according to the result of the comparison.

  Typically, the method comprises providing at least an indicator at the output to the user.

  Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1A is a schematic plan view of a first embodiment of an apparatus for use in evaluating a subject's knee flexor strength. FIG. 1B is a schematic side view of a first embodiment of an apparatus for use in evaluating a subject's knee flexor strength. FIG. 1C is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of an apparatus for use in evaluating a subject's knee flexor strength. FIG. 1D is a schematic illustration of a first example of a subject performing at least contraction of the knee flexor muscle using the device. FIG. 1E is a schematic diagram of a first example of a subject performing at least contraction of the knee flexor muscle using the device. FIG. 1F is a schematic diagram of a first example of a subject performing at least contraction of the knee flexor muscle using the device. FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of an example support. FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of an example support. FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram of an example support. FIG. 2D is a schematic diagram of an example support. FIG. 2E is a schematic diagram of an example support. FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of an example of a fixing member and a sensor. FIG. 3B is a schematic view of another example of the fixing member. FIG. 3C is a schematic diagram of another example of a stationary member having a movable coupling and a sensor. FIG. 3D is a schematic diagram of another example of a stationary member having a movable coupling and a sensor. FIG. 3E is a schematic diagram of another example of a stationary member having a movable coupling and a sensor. FIG. 3F is a schematic diagram of another example of a stationary member having a movable coupling and a sensor. FIG. 3G is a schematic diagram of another example of a fixing member and a sensor. FIG. 3H is a schematic diagram of another example of a fixing member and a sensor. FIG. 4A is a schematic side view of a second embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength having a telescopic portion. FIG. 4B is a schematic bottom view of a second embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength having a telescopic portion. FIG. 4C is a schematic view of a third embodiment of an apparatus having a fixing member movably mounted on a support. FIG. 4D is a schematic view of a third embodiment of an apparatus having a fixed member movably mounted on a support. FIG. 4E is a schematic illustration of a fourth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength having a telescopic portion. FIG. 4F is a schematic illustration of a fifth embodiment of an apparatus for use in evaluating a subject's knee flexor strength, having a telescopic portion. FIG. 4G is a schematic diagram of a sixth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength having a telescopic portion. FIG. 4H is a schematic illustration of a seventh embodiment of an apparatus for use in evaluating a subject's knee flexor strength, having two telescopic portions. FIG. 5A is a schematic side view of an eighth embodiment of an apparatus for use in evaluating a subject's knee flexor strength with an adjustable angle member. FIG. 5B is a schematic side view of an eighth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with an adjustable angle member. FIG. 5C is a schematic perspective view of an eighth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with an adjustable angle member. FIG. 6A is a schematic illustration of a ninth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength having a hingeable expandable portion. FIG. 6B is a schematic illustration of a ninth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength having a hingeable expandable portion. FIG. 6C is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with a hingeable expandable portion. FIG. 7A is a schematic illustration of a tenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with a movable leg. FIG. 7B is a schematic illustration of a tenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with a movable leg. FIG. 8A is a schematic illustration of an eleventh embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with a lifting support. FIG. 8B is a schematic illustration of an eleventh embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with a lifting support. FIG. 9A is a schematic illustration of a twelfth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 9B is a schematic illustration of a thirteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 9C is a schematic illustration of a fourteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 9D is a schematic illustration of a fifteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 9E is a schematic illustration of a sixteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 9F is a schematic illustration of a sixteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 9G is a schematic illustration of a seventeenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with individually adjustable supports. FIG. 10A is a schematic illustration of an eighteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with an angle sensor. FIG. 10B is a schematic illustration of a nineteenth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with an angle sensor. FIG. 10C is a schematic illustration of a twentieth embodiment of an apparatus for use in assessing a subject's knee flexor strength with an angle sensor. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an example of an electronic processing device. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of another embodiment of a method for evaluating the knee flexor strength of a subject. FIG. 13A is a graph obtained by measuring the force of a subject who performs knee flexor extensible contraction. FIG. 13B is a graph obtained by measuring the angle of a subject who performs knee flexor extensible contraction. FIG. 13C is a graph obtained by measuring the angular velocity of a subject who performs knee flexor extensible contraction.

  An example of an apparatus for use in evaluating the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of a subject will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1F.

  In this example, the device 100 includes a support 110 and two fixing members 121 and 122. It is used to secure each lower leg of subject S in a position that is substantially fixed relative to support 110.

  The device 100 further comprises two sensors 130.1, 130.2. They are used to detect a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle on one or both feet of subject S while subject S performs extensible contraction of at least one knee flexor muscle.

  Typically, the knee flexors include three major hamstrings, semi-tendonoids, and half-pattern and biceps, as well as non-major knee flexors, sewing muscles, gastrocnemius and thin muscles. For simplicity, the following description will primarily refer to the measurement of hamstring muscle strength. However, this technique is applicable to measuring one or more knee flexors and is not limited to hamstring muscles.

  FIGS. 1D to 1F show subject S performing at least a hamstring muscle contraction using apparatus 100. In this regard, FIG. 1D shows the subject S in the initial knee position before initiating contraction, with each fixation member 121 in a position where the subject's lower leg is substantially fixed relative to the support during use. , 122. The subject S then proceeds to lower the upper body in the direction of the support 110 in a controlled manner while substantially maintaining the alignment of the upper leg or thigh and the torso as shown in FIG. 1E. FIG. 1F shows the final position of the subject S lying on the support 110 in a substantially lying state. The elongation contraction described above is called “Nordic hamstring movement”, “Nordic curl”, or the like.

  Thus, the configuration described above provides a device 100 for use in assessing the strength of the subject's S hamstring muscle. Here, the force generated in the lower leg of the subject S while executing at least the contraction of the hamstring muscle indicates the strength of the hamstring muscle. In this regard, the device 100 can be used to monitor hamstring muscle strength, including any change in hamstring muscle strength over time, and a sign of flesh, such as temporal strength differences, during breaks. To detect imbalances between legs responding to fatigue (ie, other than during fatigue), monitor the progress of rehabilitation, monitor progress during reinforcement training, or monitor the number benchmark It can be used. For example, using the device 100 as shown in FIGS. 1D to 1F, additionally or alternatively, the device 100 strengthens the hamstring muscle by performing repeated stretch contractions of the hamstring muscle. It can also be used to

  Typically, hamstring muscles are evaluated using a large, laboratory-based isokinetic dynamometer. It is expensive and requires high skill to monitor the evaluation procedure. In contrast, the device 100 is easy to manufacture, so the manufacturing cost is low and provides a low cost device for assessing hamstring strength. Additionally, the device 100 allows non-skilled users to use and monitor the device 100 easily and effectively.

  Furthermore, the device 100 is portable and easy to move. By being portable, subjects such as members of a sports team can easily carry the device 100 on a team bus, airplane, train, car, etc. during expeditions, event venues, and training sessions. Further, the apparatus 100 can be modularized to improve portability. Thus, the securing members 121, 122 and / or one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 may be provided separately and / or with respect to the support 110, and may be easily assembled and disassembled. Good. However, this feature is not essential.

  The device 100 comprising two sensors 130.1, 130.2 makes it possible to evaluate the hamstring strength of both hamstrings of the subject S at the same time. Therefore, the sensors 130.1 and 130.2 may simultaneously detect a force indicating at least hamstring strength of each leg of the subject S. In this respect, the time required for evaluation is greatly reduced compared to existing methods, for example, conventional isokinetic dynamometers are limited to evaluating the hamstring muscles of the opposite leg at different times. The The device also enhances sensitivity and reliability for assessing imbalances between limb strengths compared to existing techniques. This reduces the time required for the assessment of subject S, so that the assessment of hamstring strength is accessible to the entire sports team as part of the normal health and fitness assessment. In this example, two sensors 130.1, 130.2 are shown, but this is not required and any number of sensors, including one sensor, can be used to monitor the force on one leg. It is. Alternatively, a single sensor may be used to monitor the combination of hamstring strength in both legs.

  In this example, at least the hamstring muscle stretch contraction of subject S is shown in FIGS. 1D-1F, but any suitable exercise including hamstring muscle stretch contraction can be performed. For example, the patient's hips may be placed at different positions to perform extensible contraction with the subject's hips and trunks fixed forward. However, this is not essential. In this example, the device is used during at least the hamstring muscle contraction of subject S, but the device 100 is used to measure other muscles or muscle groups while performing other types of muscle contractions. May be. For example, the device 100 may be used to evaluate any suitable muscle or group of muscles, such as knee flexors, hip flexors, knee extensors, quadriceps. In this regard, the assessment may be performed during the stretch, isokinetic, intensive contraction, etc. of each muscle or group of muscles.

  In another example, the device 100 may be used to assess hamstring muscle strength while the subject S performs at least hamstring muscle intensive contractions. Concentrated contraction of the hamstring muscle, for example, as shown in FIG. 1F, is that the subject S is initially in a substantially collapsed position, and the lower leg of the subject S is used for the support using the respective fixing members 121 and 122. It is fixed at a position where it is substantially fixed. Subsequently, the subject S raises the upper body toward the support 110 in a controlled manner while substantially maintaining the alignment of the upper leg or thigh and torso as shown in FIG. 1E. FIG. 1D shows the final position with subject S substantially crawling on support 110. However, exercise is not essential and any suitable exercise may be performed to assess any suitable muscle or muscle group.

  Therefore, according to the above, it is used to evaluate the muscle strength of the subject S including the support 110 and the two fixing members 121 and 122 for restraining the movement of the lower legs of the subject S with respect to the support 110. An apparatus 100 is provided. The apparatus 100 further includes one or more sensors 130.1 that detect a force indicative of muscle strength during use while the subject S performs a muscle exercise, exercise that exerts at least some force of the sensors 130.1, 130.2. 130.2.

  Many more features are described below.

  In another embodiment, the sensors 130.1 and 130.2 are fixed to fixing members 121 and 122 that fix the ankle of the subject S to the support 119, respectively. Therefore, the force detected at the ankle indicates hamstring strength. However, this feature is not essential, and the sensors 130.1 and 130.2 may detect a force generated in an arbitrary portion of the lower leg such as under the knee of the subject S, for example.

  Also, assessment of hamstring muscle strength may occur during contraction of one or both hamstring muscles. For example, during both contractions, the two sensors 130.1, 130.2 may be used to sense the force of each leg of the subject at the same time or at different times. Alternatively, a single sensor 130.1, 130.2 may be used to sense the force of one or both legs. During one contraction, the device can be exchanged between the lower legs of the subject by repositioning the subject S relative to the sensors 130.1, 130.2 and / or the fixation members 121, 122 and / or the support 110. One sensor 130.1, 130.2 may be included. As a result, the hamstring strength of both feet can be continuously evaluated. However, this feature is not essential.

  The apparatus 100 may be used to assess hamstring muscle strength, including assessments during leg imbalance, fatigue (fatigue), improvement, rehabilitation, benchmarking, and the like. This will be described in detail below. Furthermore, the device 100 may be used in connection with other diagnostic, experimental, or complementary devices or techniques, such as an electromyogram that assesses the electrical behavior of skeletal muscle. However, this is not essential.

  Additionally or alternatively, the device 100 may be used to strengthen muscles, for example, by a subject S who repeatedly performs at least elastic contraction of the hamstring muscles using the device 100. .

  In one embodiment, the support 110 is extended and the securing members 121, 122 are provided at the first end. The second end supports the weight of the subject S. However, this is not essential and the support 110 may be any suitable shape detailed below.

  2A-2D show many other examples of the support 110. Features similar to those of the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  2A to 2E show another example of support 110. FIG. In FIG. 2A, the support further includes two fixation members 121, 122 for fixing the respective lower legs of subject S in a position that is substantially fixed in use relative to support 110. One or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 are not shown. 2B to 2D, the fixing members 121, 122 and the one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 are not shown.

  In this regard, the support 110 may have any suitable shape including an ellipse, circle, polygon, square, rectangle, ergonomic shape, and the like. The support 110 may be any suitable material to withstand the weight of at least a portion of the subject S, such as wood, medium fiberboard (MDF), plastic, glass fiber, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), It may be made of aluminum or the like.

  In FIG. 2E, the support 110 has a step-shaped cross section so that the knee support 201 is provided at a higher position of the support 110 and the sensors 130.1, 130.2 are coupled to the lower position of the support 100. The Accordingly, when the lower legs of the subject S are fixed at positions where the fixing members 121 and 122 are substantially fixed to the support 110 during use, the lower legs of the subject S are substantially parallel to the support 110. Can be placed. However, this feature is not essential and the support may have any suitable profile including a cross-sectional profile, such as uniform, tilted.

  Although a single unitary support is shown, this is for ease of illustration, and in practice the support is formed from a plurality of support members, which may or may not be interconnected. In one embodiment, the support has two parallel support members, each of which is coupled with a respective fixing member.

  In these embodiments, each support 100 has one or more knee supports 201, 202 that support one or more knees of subject S. They protect the subject's knee from loosening, injury, pain, etc. during use. Thus, the knee supports 201, 202 may be constructed from any suitable material including foam, rubber, cloth, and the like.

  The knee supports 201 and 202 may be movably mounted on the support 110. A subject S having a different size, particularly a subject having a different height, has a different distance between the knee and the lower leg when the fixing members 121 and 122 are fixed. Therefore, the knee supports 201 and 202 adjust, for example, the distance from the fixing members 121 and 122, the distance between the knee supports 201 and 202, the angle of the knee supports 201 and 202, and the like so as to suit the specific subject S. It is placed so that it can move. Thus, the movable mount may include any suitable mount such as a guide rail, semi-rigid mount, and the like. However, this feature is not essential. Alternatively, an elite athlete may have a bespoke device 100. Alternatively, the knee supports 201 and 202 may be large enough to accommodate a range of subjects S having different sizes.

  3A to 3H show many other embodiments of the securing members 121,122. The same components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  FIG. 3A shows an example of a fixing member 121 coupled to the sensor 130. In this respect, the coupling includes, for example, a C-shaped member 321 such as a bolt, a screw, and a claw, and a fastener 322. However, any suitable coupling can be used. The fixing member 121 has a detachable cuff including fasteners such as Velcro (trademark), buttons, zippers and the like. Any suitable fixing member 121 in which the cuff receives the lower leg of the subject S may be used. This will be described in detail below.

  FIG. 3B includes a flexible and / or curved body. Another embodiment of the fixing member 121 is shown. In this example, the securing member is secured to the sensor 130 using one or more couplings as shown in FIG. 3C so that during use, the subject S places the lower leg directly through the body and / or Requires at least one coupling desorption element. However, this feature is not essential and, for example, a semi-rigid C-shaped member as shown in FIGS. 3E and 3F facilitates fixing and unfixing of the lower leg.

  FIGS. 3C to 3F show four embodiments of the securing member 121 coupled to the sensor 130. This may be accomplished using any suitable means, including a D-shaped member 321 as shown in FIG. 3C, or a C-shaped member 321 and fastener 322 as shown in FIG. 3D. Alternatively, the sensor 130 may be included within the securing member 121 as shown in FIGS. 3E and 3F. Alternatively, the fixing member 121 may be directly coupled to the sensor 130 using a string, a screw, a bolt, an adhesive, or the like. With the configuration shown in FIGS. 3E and 3F, the sensor can sense either or both compression and extension forces, for example, depending on the exercise being performed.

  In these embodiments, sensor 130 comprises any suitable sensor including a load cell, force plate, piezo force sensor, strain gauge, water pressure gauge, and the like. Additionally, the sensor 130 may detect either compression force or extension force. In this regard, the position of the sensor 130 depends on the type of force detected. For example, when detecting the extension force, the sensor may be disposed between the support 110 and the fixing member 121.

  3C to 3F further show the movable coupling 310. Thereby, the sensor 130 can pivot with respect to the support 110. Some sensors 130, such as certain types of load cells, detect unidirectional forces. Therefore, the sensor is aligned by the movable coupling 310 so that the detection direction is substantially parallel to the generated force. Thus, this allows sensor 130 to detect at least one entire force indicative of hamstring strength of at least one leg, not its vertical component.

  3C to 3F, the movable coupling 310 has a ball and socket type joint. The ball is coupled to the support 110 inside the joint, and the socket is connected to the sensor 130. Thereby, the sensor 130 can have a rotational degree of freedom with respect to the support 110. However, any movable coupling 310 can be used including swivels, strings, chains, ropes, flexible cables, straps and the like.

  FIGS. 3G and 3H show two other embodiments of stationary member 121, sensor 130, and movable coupling 310. In FIG. 3G, the side surface of the fixing member 121 is coupled to the support 110, and the sensor 130 is included in the fixing member 121 on the opposite side. As a result, when the lower leg of the subject S is prompted to move away from the support 110, the sensor 130 detects the compressive force.

  In FIG. 3H, the fixing member 121 is coupled to the sensor 130 through an aperture included in the support 110. In this respect, the sensor is provided on the side surface of the support 110 opposite to the fixing member 121. Therefore, when the lower leg of the subject S is prompted to move away from the support 110, it is arranged to detect the compressive force. The aperture 311 may be any suitable shape. In this embodiment, the movable coupling 310 is configured to be movable.

  4A through 4H show another embodiment of the device 100 used to assess the hamstring muscle strength of subject S. FIG. The same features as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  4A and 4B have a support 110, a fixed member 122, a sensor 130 coupled to the movable coupling 310, and a knee support 201.

  The apparatus has a telescopic portion 430 that includes an upper body support 401 for supporting at least a portion of the upper body of the subject S while the subject performs at least a portion of the extensible contraction, for example, as shown in FIG. 1F. In this regard, the upper body support 401 may be composed of any suitable material such as foam, rubber, cloth or the like. In this embodiment, the telescopic portion 430 is coupled to the support 110 using hinges 411 and 412, but any suitable shaped coupling may be used. For example, the expansion / contraction part may be provided as a separate member and is detachably coupled to the support 110, or the expansion / contraction part is housed in or below the support 110 and coupled to be slidably extended therefrom. Is done.

  Additionally, the device 400 may be provided in an assembled state with the telescopic portion 430 fully extended, for example, as shown in FIGS. 4A to 4E. This provides comfort, stability and support to the subject while performing the extensible contraction. Additionally, in a disassembled state, the telescopic portion is removed, housed within or below the support 110, and folded in a hingeable manner within the support 110 so that the device 400 is more manageable during movement and storage. It becomes easy. Therefore, portability is improved. Alternatively, the telescopic portion 430 may be permanently provided in the assembled position, either as a separate part with respect to the support 110 or as a state of being integrally formed with the support 110.

  In this embodiment, one or more fixing members 121, 122 may additionally be coupled to the support 110. But this feature is not essential.

  4C to 4D show a third embodiment of the apparatus 400. FIG. The same reference numerals are given to the same features as those described above. The fixation members 121, 122 may be adjusted so that the position and / or angle relative to the support 110 is suitable for a particular muscle contraction, or different subjects having a particular subject S, different length legs, different hip widths, etc. The fixed member 121, 122 is movably mounted on the support 110 to asymmetrically distribute the maximum force generation capacity between the specific subject S or hamstring muscles including . In this embodiment, the fixing members 121 and 122 may be movably mounted so that the distance between the fixing members 121 and 122 is adjustable. In addition, the movable parts 453 and 454 are movably mounted on the support 110 using the second guide parts 451 and 452 so that the distance between the fixed members 121 and 122 and the knee support 201 can be adjusted. The

  Other movable mount configurations may be used, for example, first guide members 455, 456 may be used to adjust the distance between the fixation members 121, 122 and the knee support 201. Further, the second guide members 451 and 452 may be used to adjust the distance between the fixing members 121 and 122. Alternatively, the movable portions 453 and 454 may not be present, and the apparatus 400 includes only the second guide members 451 and 452, and the distance between the fixing members 121 and 122 or the fixing members 121 and 122. The distance between the knee support 201 may be adjusted. Any suitable first and second guide members may be used including guide rails, pins, pin holes and the like. But this feature is not essential.

  4E to 4H show fourth to seventh embodiments of the apparatus 400, respectively. The same features as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

  4F and 4H, the apparatus 400 further has an aperture 420 in the support 110. FIG. The aperture provides, for example, a handle that is easy to extend or attach the telescoping part and / or a handle that is easy to carry the device 400. However, this feature is not essential.

  Additionally, FIG. 4H shows a device 400 that includes two telescopic portions 430.1, 430.2. This feature improves the portability of the device because the weight can be reduced. In addition, the two telescopic parts 430.1, 430.2 can provide individual positions. This point will be described in detail below.

  FIGS. 5A to 5C show an eighth embodiment of an apparatus 500 used to assess the hamstring muscle strength of subject S. FIG. The same features as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  FIGS. 5A and 5B show a support 110 and a telescopic portion 430 that includes adjustable angle members 510, 511. In this regard, the adjustable angle members 510, 511 allow the support 110 and the telescopic portion 430 to be positioned at a desired angle. Thereby, at least the initial position immediately before the start of the extensible contraction of the hamstring muscle as shown in FIG. 1D can be inclined at a desired angle. On the other hand, this angle is beneficial for performing the exercise, as the tilt can reduce the force required to support the user during the exercise.

  FIG. 5C shows an example of an apparatus 500 for use in assessing a subject's hamstring muscle strength. The apparatus 500 includes a support 110, two fixation members 121, 122, one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 coupled to the fixation members 121, 122, and a knee that supports the knee of the subject S during use. Support 201 is provided.

  In this embodiment, the apparatus 500 has two expansion / contraction parts 4230.1 and 430.2 including the upper body support 401. Additional telescopic portions 430.1, 430.2 can accommodate a large subject S, provide additional support to prevent undesired movement of the device 500, and / or disassembled device 500. Thus reducing the footprint and thus improving portability. In this respect, the support 110 and the telescopic parts 430.1 and 430.2 are pivotally attached via hinges 411 and 412. However, any suitable flexible coupling may be used.

  5C includes an angle adjusting member 510, and the support 110 and the telescopic portion 430 are disposed at a desired angle as described above.

  6A to 6C show a ninth embodiment of an apparatus 600 for use in assessing hamstring muscle strength of subject S. FIG. The same features as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  Accordingly, the device 600 has a support 110 and a telescopic part 430 pivoted via hinges 411 and 412. The major difference in structure is aesthetics. In the embodiment of FIG. 6C, the stretchable part 430 may be fixed at any one of a plurality of angles. In this regard, one or more angle adjustment members 621 and 622 may be provided to fix the support 110 and the telescopic portion 430 at a desired angle. The desired angle may be any suitable angle such as the angle between the support 110 and the telescopic portion 430, the angle between the support 110 and the horizontal plane, and the angle between the support 110 and the vertical plane.

  Additionally, a plurality of markings 630 may be provided to the device 600. It provides a desired angular display to which at least a portion of the device 600 is fixed. When the angle adjusting members 621 and 622 are fixed to the anchor point using, for example, a hook, a pin, or the like, for example, the anchor point on the lower side of the telescopic portion 430 is attached to each marking 630 to indicate a desired angle. It may correspond. However, this feature is not essential.

  7A and 7B show a tenth embodiment of an apparatus 700 for use in assessing subject S's hamstring strength. The same features as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In this embodiment, the device 700 further has two or more movable legs 731, 732. It may move and / or pivot relative to support 110 to provide support 110 at many different angles. In this regard, the present embodiment shown in FIG. 7A has two or more legs 731 732 engaged so that the support 110 is substantially horizontal. The present embodiment shown in FIG. 7B shows the first legs 732 engaged differently so that the support 110 is no longer substantially horizontal. In this regard, different configurations of the movable legs 731, 732 may provide the support 110 at many different angles. However, this feature is not essential and the device 700 may be provided without the movable legs 731, 732.

  8A and 8B show an eleventh embodiment of an apparatus 800 for use in assessing hamstring muscle strength of subject S. FIG. The same features as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In this embodiment, the device 800 has a raised support 810 and two angle adjustment members. However, any number of angle adjustment members can be used. Accordingly, the angle adjustment member is pivotally mounted including clasps 831, 832 that engage any one of the plurality of teeth 811, 812 to secure the support 110 and / or the telescopic portion 430 at a desired angle. Long members 821 and 822. In this regard, support 110 and telescopic portion 430 may be adjusted around pivot 840 at any desired angle.

  As described above, adjusting the position of the support 110 and / or the telescopic portion 430 provides stability of the device 800 to subjects S of different sizes and different hamstring muscles during extensible contraction by the subject S. The apparatus 800 is configured for a load.

  9A through 9G show a twelfth embodiment of an apparatus 900 for use in assessing hamstring muscle strength of subject S. FIG. The same features as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In this embodiment, the device 900 is individually operable so that the supports 910.1, 910.2 are positioned differently to support each subject's lower leg at different positions and / or different angles. One or more supports 910.1, 910.2. Thus, each leg moves differently while subject S is performing an extensible contraction. This affects each hamstring muscle's ability to generate maximum force. Accordingly, the device 900 may be configured to guide at least one hamstring muscle of the subject S so as to exert a force greater or less than other hamstring muscles.

  This provides the advantage of being suitable for inducing or increasing the load to restore hamstring muscle, including during rehabilitation. Alternatively, it is also necessary to evaluate the hamstring muscle strength of each leg at different load ranges, i.e., angle and / or position. However, this feature is not essential.

  In the twelfth embodiment of FIG. 9A, the two stretchable parts 430.1, 430.2 are pivotally attached to the respective supports 910.1, 910.2. They are individually adjustable and are fixed at the desired angle using any suitable configuration as described in the above embodiments.

  FIG. 9B shows a thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus 900. It is adjustable angle member pivotally mounted on pivot 931 on support 910.2 such that support 910.2 moves about pivot 920 and is fixed at the desired angle using adjustable angle member 930. 930.

  FIG. 9C shows a fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus 900. It is adjustable in angle that is pivotally mounted on pivot 931 on support 910.2 such that support 910.2 moves about pivot 920 and is fixed at a desired angle using adjustable angle member 930. A member 930 is provided. Accordingly, the adjustable angle member 930 has a clasp 933 that is received on any one of a number of teeth 932 provided on the lifting support 810.

  FIG. 9D shows a fifteenth embodiment of the apparatus 900. It is adjustable that is pivotally mounted on a pivot 931 on each support 910.2 such that the supports 910.2 move around the pivot 920 and are fixed at a desired angle using an adjustable angle member 930. An angle member 930 is included. Accordingly, the adjustable member 930 has a number of teeth 932 such that any one of the teeth 932 is received by a clasp 933 provided on the lifting support 810.

  9E and 9F show a sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus 900. FIG. It is the respective support 910.1 such that the support 910.2 is movable around the pivot 920 and can be fixed at a desired angle using adjustable angle members 935.1, 935.2. , 910.2 and adjustable angle members 935.1, 935.2 pivotally mounted on pivot 931.2. Accordingly, the adjustable angle members 935.1, 935.2 use the pins 934.1, 934.2 to engage the adjustable angle members and the lifting support 810, respectively, to support the respective supports 910.1, 910.2. It may be used to fix at a desired angle.

  FIG. 9G shows a seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus 900. It has a single telescopic part 430 and two supports 910.1, 910.2. The position and / or angle of the supports 910.1, 910.2 may be adjusted individually. In this regard, the supports 910.1, 910.2 are pivotally attached to the telescopic portion 430 and may be secured using any suitable configuration as described in the example above.

  FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate another embodiment of an apparatus 1000 for use in assessing subject S's hamstring muscle strength. The same components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The apparatus 1000 includes two fixing members 121 and 122 for fixing each lower leg of the subject S, one or more sensors 130.1 and 130.2, and one or more knee supports that support the subject's S knee during use. 201.

  The apparatus 1000 further includes an angle sensor for detecting the angle of the subject S. This information is analyzed to provide the subject's position, angle, angular velocity, angular acceleration, etc. while the subject is performing at least a stretch contraction of the hamstring muscle. The angle sensor has any suitable configuration, mechanism or device. For example, in FIG. 10A, the angle sensor has two side supports 1010. One side support includes a plurality of emitters 1011 such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), infrared (IR) emitters, and the like. The opposite side support includes one or more angle sensors such as photodiodes, infrared sensors, and the like. Since subject S performs an extensible contraction similar to FIGS. 1D to 1F, the subject's torso becomes a continuous obstacle to each emitter of each angle sensor. Therefore, the angle of the torso of the subject can be determined.

  In FIG. 10B, the angle sensor includes any suitable mechanism for determining the angle of the subject's knee joint, such as at least one goniometer 1020, gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetometer, infrared sensor, and the like.

  FIG. 10C illustrates another example of an angle sensor that includes one or more movable members 1030 that track the position of the user's upper leg during use. Accordingly, a sensor or transducer appropriately disposed such as on a hinge disposed between the movable member 1030 and the support 110 can detect a signal indicative of at least an angle or angular velocity of the movable member 1030.

  Additionally or alternatively, in this embodiment, the movable member 1030 assists the subject S when returning from the collapsed position as shown in FIG. 1F to the scooping state as shown in FIG. 1D, for example. give. In this regard, the movable member 1030 may be used to assist the subject S when performing at least concentrated hamstring contraction as described above. Alternatively, as described above, it may be used to simply assist the subject S in returning to the initial position following at least the extensible contraction of the hamstring muscle. In this regard, the movable member 1030 may have any suitable configuration for returning to an upper position, such as, for example, a bias member, mechanical and / or electrical actuator.

  The angle sensor is an indicator of the angle and / or position of the subject's knee joint, including either absolute or relative angle, angular velocity, angular acceleration, etc., at regular intervals throughout the exercise or averaged. It may be used to determine. The angle indicator may be used to give further indicators or ratings. This is described in detail below.

  Also, distances such as the distance between the subject's knee axis of rotation and the sensors 130.1, 130.2 and / or the fixed members 121, 122 are detected by an angle sensor or any other suitable configuration. May be. For example, it may be used in generating a torque indicator or rating described below. Alternatively, the distance is measured manually and entered into the electrical processor. This is also detailed below. However, this feature is not essential.

  Additionally, the sensors 130.1, 130.2 may be connected to other electrical processing devices such as, for example, monitoring devices or treatment systems. It is adapted to monitor signals from one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 and generate at least in part using a signal indicator that is an indicator of hamstring strength for one or more hamstring muscles. .

  The processing system 1100 is adapted to receive signals from one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 and then displays or alternatively derives an associated indicator, such as a measure of measured force. The processed signal or data is transferred to another remote device for further processing, analysis or display. Thus, the electrical processing device acts as an acquisition unit, or acts as both acquisition and at least partially analyzing or displaying the results.

  Accordingly, the processing system 1100 has any suitable type of electrical processing system or device capable of receiving and analyzing or transmitting signals from one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2. . FIG. 11 shows an example of a processing system.

  In this embodiment, the processing system 1100 has a processor 1110, memory 1111, input / output (I / O) devices 1112, such as a keyboard and display, and an external interface 1113 joined together via a bus 1114. . The I / O device further includes input devices such as a keyboard, keypad, touch screen, buttons, switches, etc. from which the user can enter data. External interface 1113 is used to connect processing system 1100 to peripheral devices such as output 1120 and one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2, as well as to devices such as communication networks, databases, and other storage devices. Is done. Although a single external interface is shown, this is merely an example, and in practice there are various methods (eg Ethernet, serial USB, wireless (Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, high frequency network) ), Mobile networks, etc.) may be provided. Additional hardware components may be incorporated within processing system 1100 depending on the particular implementation.

  The electrical processing device 1100 may have any suitable power source (not shown), such as a battery, a solar panel, for example. However, this is not essential. Alternatively, the electrical processing device 1100 may be adapted to connect to a main power source, a power supply network, or the like.

  In use, processor 1110 executes instructions in the form of application software stored in memory 1111, signals from one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 are analyzed, and output 1120 is controlled. May additionally be used. Thus, for convenience of the following description, functions performed by processing system 1100 are typically performed by processor 1110 under the control of instructions stored in memory 1111. Detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  Accordingly, the processing system 1110 can be a suitably programmed PC, Internet terminal, laptop, mobile PC, tablet PC, state PC, iPad ™, mobile phone, smartphone, PDA (personal digital assistant), or other communication. It may be formed from any suitably programmed processing system such as a device. Thus, the processor 1110 can be a microprocessor, microchip processor, logic gate configuration, firmware associated with implementation logic such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or one or more sensors 130.1, 130. .2 and additionally any type of electrical processing device, such as any other electronic device, system or apparatus capable of interacting with the output 1120.

  The apparatus 100 may further have an output 1120 for providing an indicator to the user. In this regard, the output 1120 may have any suitable mechanism, such as a light emitting diode (LED), an acoustic device such as a speaker, a digital display such as a monitor, an electronic device such as a USB or Ethernet port, a wireless transmitter, etc. You may have a signal transmitter. Accordingly, the output 1120 may generate one or more of light including color light, sound or sound, at least one alphabetic character, a graph, a picture, a wireless electronic signal, a wired electronic signal, and the like.

  An embodiment of a method for assessing hamstring muscle strength of subject S is described. The method is performed using an apparatus 100 having a support 110, two fixation members 121, 122, and one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2.

  The method includes securing the two lower legs of subject S using each securing member 121, 122 in a substantially secured position relative to support 110 during use. The method further detects a force indicative of at least hamstring strength of one or both legs of subject S using sensors 130.1 and 130.2 while subject S performs at least a hamstring muscle contraction. Have to do.

  FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of the method for evaluating the hamstring muscle strength of the subject S. The method includes using the apparatus 100 including a support 110, two fixation members 121, 122, and one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2.

  Prior to step 1210, the fixation members 121, 122 and one or more additional knee supports 201 are adjusted and fixed in a position suitable for the size and shape of the subject S. For example, the distance between the fixing members 121 and 122 or the distance between the fixing members 121 and 122 and the knee support 201 may be adjusted. Further, the support 110 and / or the expansion / contraction part 430 may be arranged at a desired angle according to any one of the configurations of the above-described embodiment in order to evaluate one or both hamstring muscles of the subject S differently. Good. However, these steps are not essential.

  In step 1200, the two lower legs of the subject S are fixed using the respective fixing members 121 and 122 at a position where they are substantially fixed to the support 110 during use. Accordingly, additional securing members 121, 122 may be provided on the device 100 to secure another portion of the lower leg relative to the device 100, for example to secure both ankles and knees of the subject S Four fixing members 121 and 122 are provided. However, this feature is not essential, and only two fixing members 121 and 122 may be used.

  In step 1210, the signal from the one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 is monitored while subject S performs at least an extensible contraction of at least the hamstring muscle. Typically, the signal is monitored using an electronic processing device such as a processing system, which is applied to receive and analyze the signal. In one embodiment, the two sensors 130.1, 130 so that the sensors 130.1, 130.2 detect at least the hamstring strength of each leg of subject S at the same time or at different times. .2 are coupled to the fixing members 121 and 122, respectively. Also, at least the extensible contraction of the hamstring muscle includes any suitable movement, such as the Nordic hamstring movement as described above with reference to FIGS. 1D to 1F.

  Optionally, at step 1220, at least a portion of the signal is compared to reference data including any suitable data as described above with reference to FIG.

  In step 1230, an indicator indicating hamstring strength is generated from at least a portion of the signal and comprises any suitable indicator as described above with reference to FIG. If additional step 1220 is performed, the indicator may be generated according to the result of the comparison.

  The indicator may also be generated, at least in part, from an average based on signals acquired during stretch contraction. For example, in step 1210, signals from sensors 130.1, 130.2 may be monitored while the subject is performing multiple extensible contractions. Thus, the indicator at step 1230 can be generated using an average of at least some signals. Additionally, out-of-range signals may be removed. For example, if the subject performs a set of 6 stretch contractions in step 1210, the indicator generated in step 1230 will be at least part of the signal, ie, 4 stretch contractions performed in the center of the set. It may have an average determined using the corresponding signal.

  Optionally, in step 1240, an indicator is provided to the user at output 1120, eg, as described above with reference to FIG.

  The indicator may indicate one or more of one or more of instantaneous force, force average, force peak, instantaneous torque, torque average, torque peak, impulse, action, force speed and / or torque increase. . In addition, the indicator may be on both sides indicating at least hamstring strength of both feet, or may be on one side indicating at least hamstring strength of one leg of the subject. Additionally, the indicator may include an average such as a total average, a weighted average, a moving average, a weekly or monthly average, or any other suitable average.

  However, additional indicators may be generated indicating other parameters such as knee joint position, motion, etc., described below.

  For example, a time unit for an instantaneous indicator may be included. In this regard, FIG. 13A provides an example of an indicator 1301 that includes a force indicative of at least hamstring muscle strength of the legs of subject S per time unit while subject S performs at least hamstring muscle contraction. .

  13B and 13C give examples of knee joint position 1202 and knee angular velocity 1203 over time. It can be given in addition to the indicator or used in the determination. In this regard, knee joint position 1202 and knee angular velocity 1203 may be measured using any suitable configuration, for example, the configuration described with respect to FIGS. 10A-10C.

  Additionally or alternatively, the processing system may compare the signal from at least one of the one or more sensors 130.1, 130.2 with reference data and generate an indicator according to the result of the comparison. In this regard, the reference data includes any suitable data, for example, from a normal population, a predetermined range, a predetermined reference value, previously generated indicators, and indicators generated for other legs. Any suitable data such as the tolerance to be determined may be included.

  The indicator may also indicate both a signal and additional reference data. The indicator has a graph of signals adjacent to or overlapping the previously generated indicator from the normal population, or the same subject and / or leg. Alternatively or additionally, the indicator may include at least partial differences between signals and reference data, eg, quantitative improvement in hamstring strength from previously generated indicators, or subject S's Includes percentage difference in hamstring strength between legs. The indicator also includes a ratio between at least partial signals and reference data, for example, a ratio between hamstring muscle strength of each leg of the subject S, or a hamstring muscle strength and a quadriceps muscle of the subject S. Includes ratios between strength or other muscle / muscle group strength such as strength or hip flexor strength.

  In addition, the indicator may be an imbalance of hamstring muscle strength between each leg of subject S, hamstring muscle fatigue or feeling of fatigue, eg, improvement of hamstring muscle strength during rehabilitation, or normal population, elite athlete Gives benchmark indicators for the sports population of similar sports. In this regard, the indicator may indicate a longitudinal analysis of subject S. However, this feature is not essential and the indicator may be sent and stored on another electronic processing device capable of performing longitudinal analysis.

  Many experiments were conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the device 100 described above. In this regard, a configuration similar to that of FIGS. 1A to 1C, which will be described in detail below, was used.

Reliability and efficacy experiments Thirty-one recreational and healthy men (22.46 ± 2.33 years old, 1.81 ± 0.06 m, 80.52 ± 8.48 kg) participated in the study. Includes Australia's strongest football, rugby (league, union, or touch) soccer or sprinters. One participant was excluded from the study in order to continuously change the Nordic Hamstring Movement (NHE) technique between sessions. Therefore, analysis was performed on a total of 30 participants. Of the 30 participants, one was excluded from the analysis as it was difficult to continuously perform contractions with an isokinetic dynamometer. All participants were not injured in the lower body and were completely healthy in the chosen sport at the time of testing. All testing methods were approved by the University's Human Research Ethics Committee. Participants filled out informed consent prior to testing after explaining all procedures.

  All participants reported to the lab in three separate cases. The first session was working as a familiar session to prepare participants for all procedures to be performed in subsequent sessions and to correct technical failures during NHE execution. The second session involved determining knee flexor extensibility strength through an isokinetic dynamometer (torque) and device 100 (force). The last session related to the evaluation of knee flexor stretch strength only through the device 100 to ensure the reliability of the test-retest to be determined.

  Following the warm-up set of max lower bilateral NHE, participants will have a total of 4 sets and 12 contractions per leg, 3 max NHE bilateral (both legs) and 1 unilateral (one leg only) Was requested to perform two sets. With regard to the test order at different conditions, the bilateral contraction is always performed before the unilateral contraction, with the order of the one-leg test between participants being random. Opened for 2 minutes between set and reset. Participants were ordered to lean forward as slowly as possible with the trunks held in their natural position. The investigators used words during the exercise to ensure maximum effort. At the completion of the descent phase, participants slowly returned to their starting position and prepared for the next set. All iteration techniques were visually monitored by investigators and individual iterations were rejected if not performed with the correct technique.

The evaluation of the extensor strength of the knee flexor was performed using a Biodex Systems 3 dynamometer (Biodex Medical Systems, Shirley, NY). Participants were prone with their hips in a natural position, with the lateral epicondyles of the femur carefully aligned with the dynamometer viewpoint. This position was chosen to mimic the length of muscle experienced by hamstring muscles during NHE. The leg to be tested was attached to the dynamometer lever by a Velcro ™ strap, and a pad restraint was fastened across the hip to separate the motion with respect to the knee joint. The range of motion was set to 5 ° to 90 ° of the knee flexion angle (0 ° is a state in which the knee is fully extended), and the leg weight was corrected. Three sets of four submaximal contractions of the knee flexor were performed at + 240 ° s ⁻¹ as a warm-up to prepare participants for maximum effort in the following set. The extensible torque evaluation was performed at two speeds of 30 ° s ^-1 and 120 ° s ^-1 with two sets of three consecutive maximum spontaneous contractions (MVC) of the knee flexor muscle with a 60 second break between the sets. Executed in. These speeds were selected as test pilots that identified that these speeds encompassed a range of knee angular velocities during the NHE termination phase. Athletes were verbally encouraged by investigators to ensure maximum effort during the exercise. At the completion of each contraction, the investigator returned the lever to the starting position in preparation for the next iteration. The order of leg and speed tests was randomized.

Force data for both legs during NHE, torque and lever position during isokinetic power measurement were transferred to a computer at 1 kHz by a 16-bit PowerLab 26TAD recorder (AD Instruments, New South Wales, Australia) for later analysis. Saved to be. On device 100, for both leg (left / right) and condition (both sides / one side), the maximum force and maximum force generation capacity for each contraction is the average of the six contraction peaks (mean peak force). ) And as a single peak (peak force) of 6 contractions. The power measurement maximum torque was determined for the experimental apparatus at two isokinetic speeds (30 ° s ⁻¹ and 120 ° s ⁻¹ ). However, only average peak torque was reported because it was found to be more reliable than single peak torque measurements. The ratio between the force or torque of both legs is given as the left leg, right leg for both devices.

  All statistical analyzes were performed using JMP ™ version 10.0 (SAS Institute ™ Inc.). Means and corresponding standard deviations for all force variables from device 100 were reported for each left and right leg and for each ratio between leg forces. The Hopkins spreadsheet 'A new view of statistics' (2000) Internet Society for Sports Science www.sportsci.org/resource/stats.html (accessed Nov 2010) is used for interclass correlation (ICC), typical errors ( TE) and TE% (CV) as a relative proportion of change were calculated. The magnitude of the effect was determined from a comparison of Test 1 and Test 2 that evaluated the magnitude of the difference. For reliability, an ES (mean difference / merged standard deviation) of less than 0.2 was expected. The minimum effective change (SWC) (0.2 × ((standard deviation test 1 + standard deviation test 2) / 2) was determined. Repeated measurements of the intensity from the device 100 (variable to variables) using bivariate correlation analysis. Dependence) and a typical isokinetic dynamometer (independent of variables).

＊不均衡データはニュートンではなく比率として表す。ピーク力は６回の収縮運動で記録されたうちの最大の力である。平均ピーク力は６回の収縮運動で記録された最大力の平均である。ＳＤは標準偏差を示し、９５％ＣＩは９５％の信頼区間を示し、Ｎはニュートンを示し、ＩＣＣはクラス間相関係数を示し、ＳＷＣは最小有効変化を示し、ＴＥは全誤差を示す。 Statistics for all force variables generated from device 100 for both Test 1 and Test 2 are listed in Table 1. The magnitude of the difference between test 1 and test 2 was reported as the effective size. The difference between the two sides of the right foot, which is one variable, indicates that it can be detected (effective size ≥ 0.20), and the difference between all other variables cannot be detected (effective size ≤ 0.20). Indicates that there is. Table 1 also shows the test-retest reliability of all force variables from device 100. The absolute force measurements taken during bilateral contraction (ICC in the range of 0.83 to 0.90) were generally more reliable than unilateral contraction (ICC in the range of 0.56 to 0.80). . Regarding the leg force imbalance, only the two-sided average peak force condition was acceptable in terms of reliability (ICC = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.72-0.91).

* Disequilibrium data is expressed as a ratio, not Newton. The peak force is the maximum force recorded in 6 contractions. The average peak force is the average of the maximum forces recorded in 6 contractions. SD indicates standard deviation, 95% CI indicates 95% confidence interval, N indicates Newton, ICC indicates interclass correlation coefficient, SWC indicates minimum effective change, and TE indicates total error.

相関は、＊ｐ＜０．０５または＊＊ｐ＜０．０１における大きさとして示された。ＬＬは、左脚を示し、ＲＬは見荻脚を示す。ピーク力は６回の収縮運動で記録されたうちの最大の力である。平均ピーク力は６回の収縮運動で記録された最大力の平均である。

相関は、＊ｐ＜０．０５における大きさとして示された。ＬＬは、左脚を示し、ＲＬは見荻脚を示す。ピーク力は６回の収縮運動で記録されたうちの最大の力である。平均ピーク力は６回の収縮運動で記録された最大力の平均である。不均衡は、装置１００からの左脚の力および右脚の力の割合から、または、等運動性動力計からの左脚のトルクおよび右脚のトルクの割合から決定された。ピーク力はそれぞれの脚での６回の収縮運動で記録されたうちの最大の力である。平均ピーク力はそれぞれの脚での６回の収縮運動で記録された最大力の平均である。 Tables 2 and 3 compare the force data of the device 100 with the reciprocating torque measurements derived from the isokinetic dynamometer. On both feet, the force measured by the device 100 during bilateral contraction is greater than the corresponding dynamometer derived torque collected during a single contraction at both speeds (r values range from 0.39 to 0.58). (P <0.05) related. Regarding the force on one side from the device 100, only the right leg data is significantly (p <0.01) related to the dynamic torque at both speeds (r value in the range of 0.57 to 0.63) and left Leg forces did not show such correlation at any speed (r value ranged from 0.29 to 0.35). Regarding the imbalance between legs, only one-sided average peak force imbalance (LL: RL) correlates with leg torque imbalance (LL: RL) measured at -120 ° s ^-1 (r value = 0.43). there were.

Correlation was shown as magnitude at * p <0.05 or ** p <0.01. LL indicates the left leg, and RL indicates the look leg. The peak force is the maximum force recorded in 6 contractions. The average peak force is the average of the maximum forces recorded in 6 contractions.

Correlation was shown as magnitude at * p <0.05. LL indicates the left leg, and RL indicates the look leg. The peak force is the maximum force recorded in 6 contractions. The average peak force is the average of the maximum forces recorded in 6 contractions. The imbalance was determined from the ratio of left and right leg forces from the device 100 or from the ratio of left and right leg torques from the isokinetic dynamometer. The peak force is the maximum force recorded in 6 contractions on each leg. The average peak force is the average of the maximum forces recorded in 6 contractions on each leg.

  From the data shown, when measuring the knee flexor peak or peak average during bilateral NHE, the device 100 has shown an acceptable level of test-retest reliability, relative to the average peak force during unilateral contraction exercise. Approaching an acceptable level of reliability. For the measurement of the difference between leg strengths, the peak force is an average over 6 contractions only when the NHE is completed on both sides, and the measurement shows an acceptable reliability. Thus, the results of this study show that one of the most reliable ways to obtain the ratio between extensible knee flexor strength and leg strength from the device 100 is a bilateral NHE with an average peak force over six contractions. . It is possible to evaluate knee flexor stretch strength during bilateral contraction or unilateral contraction using single peak measurements instead of peak force averages, but comparison between leg strengths and in some cases The absolute value of the force is not reliable for these purposes. Therefore, a bilateral NHE that is executed repeatedly over a plurality of sets to determine the average of the extensible peak knee flexor extensible peak force provides optimal reliability. For maximum strength assessment, it is important to minimize the number of iterations per set to reduce the effect of fatigue through the set. This is because it has a great influence on the average peak force. In this study, two sets of three iterations were performed, but similar sets and iteration formats (ie, three sets of two iterations) are also feasible. Knee flexor stretch strength measurements and imbalances between leg strengths may be used for comparisons with one athlete rather than between athletes. This is due to factors such as the length of the levers that affect NHE performance, and changing factors such as the weight of the upper body, which varies greatly among athletes, but is considered to be the same for one athlete. is there.

Regarding simultaneous efficacy, the bilateral NHE force for both feet is highly correlated with the unilateral isokinetic extension knee flexor torque, and the correlation between the unilateral NHE force and the unilateral isokinetic extension knee flexor torque is the amount of change in unilateral contraction exercise. It is mixed because of the large amount. When comparing the difference between leg strengths, only one correlation was detected from 8 comparisons (Nordic one-sided average peak force against dynamometer torque imbalance (LL: RL) at 120 ° s ⁻¹ ). Imbalance (LL: RL)). This generally indicates that the inter-leg imbalance from device 100 is not associated with repeated measurements derived from isokinetic dynamometers.

  Correlation analysis, to some extent, indicates that the two devices make measurements with similar intensity quality within the participant. However, the reported r-values indicate that the correlation between the two measures is relaxed optimally (significant r-value range is 0.39 to 0.63). The change in intensity measurement between the two devices is explained by the inherent difference between the two required movement patterns. The device 100 measures the force at various movement speeds, requiring the hamstring muscle to control the tilt of the entire hip, not just the upper body, to maintain the upper body in a natural position. Also, the device can be implemented in a two-sided or one-sided manner. Knee flexor strength evaluation by an isokinetic dynamometer is a torque measurement at a constant moving speed separated from the knee joint and can be executed only on one side. In the relationship between force and speed, it is considered that the difference in moving speed has no significant effect on the generation of maximum extension force. In spite of this, it is believed that the difference in travel speed pattern affects the measured intensity quality and explains to some extent the difference seen between test devices. The difference in laterality between the two-sided NHE and the one-sided dynamometer test contributed to several changes, but overall, the one-sided NHE showed a weaker correlation than the two-sided contraction. This may be because the affinity time required to concentrate on unilateral contraction was too long, making it difficult for participants to experience comfort with unilateral contraction.

  The ability to assess unilateral extensor knee flexor strength during bilateral contractions, away from bilateral NHE contractions that show high reliability of test-retest, provides additional benefits. Neural control of bilateral and unilateral contractions is complex, and the drawbacks on both sides are a major example of this phenomenon. Under well-known but stressful tasks such as NHE under bilateral contractions, the nervous system chooses to protect weaker or vulnerable muscles / legs and consequently more likely muscles Or choose to load more active legs. Thus, by comparing with a one-sided strength assessment that already showed some predictive ability, the two-sided test can better detect an imbalance between leg forces. This is particularly suitable for monitoring an athlete's HSI risk, where a given leg strength difference is reported to increase an athlete's risk of flesh. Indeed, according to unpublished observations, in an elite athlete with a previous one-sided HSI history, the device 100 had previously flare compared to an isokinetic dynamometer based on the lack of extensible leg strength. The legs could be predicted better.

Invention Experiments Four active men participated in 10 training sessions for 4 weeks. Participants repeated the exercise exercise such as the extensor knee flexor muscle 8 times for the left leg, and performed 6 sets. The right foot did not train and remained in control. Before and after the completion of the intervention, the participants were measured for the level of extensor knee flexor strength using the device 100 by performing two sets of two bilateral Nordic hamstring muscle exercises. A one-sided paired t-test was used to compare the extensor knee flexor strength of both feet (before and after).

Results The left leg (trained) showed a significant increase in extensor knee flexor muscle strength (370.38N ± 76.17N before training, 391.64N ± 73.85N after training, mean difference 21.64N, p = 0.009). The right foot (control) was unchanged (front: 390.57N ± 51.74N, rear: 383.12N ± 47.76N, mean difference was −7.45N, p = 0.190).

  Thus, the device 100 can reliably detect improvements in hamstring muscle strength throughout the training period.

Meat section experiment Four energetic men who had been treated with a hamstring muscle on one side participated in the experiment. All athletes performed two sets of two bilateral Nordic hamstring exercises using the device 100 to determine extensible knee flexor strength for both previously injured and uninjured legs. . A one-sided paired t-test was used to compare extensible knee flexor strength between both legs.

result:
The previously injured leg (382.22N ± 14.19N) was significantly (p = 0.041) weaker than the uninjured leg (423.30N ± 26.40N).

  The experiment described above excludes, for example, standardization on the subject's height, weight, demographics, and the like. However, normalization can be performed in the processing system 1100 or a separate electronic processing device. As a result, the indicator becomes reference or demographically classified according to a reference population, eg, a collective population.

  From these experiments, the device 100 can effectively evaluate the hamstring muscle strength of the subject S. In particular, it shows correlation with criteria such as isokinetic dynamometer evaluation and an acceptable level of rest-retest reliability. The device 100 has also shown useful results in therapeutic interventions and cross-section surveys.

  The apparatus 100 of the above-described embodiment facilitates a simple method for assessing a subject's hamstring muscle strength. For example, in contrast to current typical hamstring muscle strength assessments, ie isokinetic dynamometers, the device 100 is inexpensive to manufacture, has good portability, shortens the assessment time, and requires skilled personnel. And not.

  Throughout this specification and the following claims, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “comprising” refer to including the stated integer or a set of integers or steps, unless stated otherwise, and It does not exclude other integers or sets of integers.

  Various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All these changes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are included in the spirit and aspects of the invention as described in the generic concept. Therefore, for example, features different from the above-described embodiment can be used as appropriate.

International Publication No. 03/094732 US Pat. No. 5,662,591 US Pat. No. 3,285,070 US Pat. No. 3,374,675 US Pat. No. 4,889,108 US Pat. No. 4,909,262

Arnason et al. 'Prevention of hamstring strains in elite soccer: an intervention study' (2008) 18 Scand J Med Sci Sports

Claims (34)

An apparatus for evaluating the strength of at least one knee flexor of a subject,
a) support,
b) two securing members for securing each of the subject's lower legs in a position that is secured during use relative to the support;
c) at least one detecting during use a force indicative of the strength of the at least one knee flexor muscle of at least one leg of the subject while the subject is performing an extensible contraction of the at least one knee flexor muscle; A device comprising a sensor.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor is coupled to at least one of the two fixing members, and the sensor detects a force exerted on a lower leg of the subject.   The at least one sensor includes two sensors, and the two sensors are coupled to the two fixing members, respectively, and detect a force indicating the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject. Item 3. The device according to Item 1 or 2.   The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the two sensors simultaneously detect a force indicative of the strength of the at least one knee flexor muscle in each leg of the subject.   The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the two sensors detect forces indicating the strength of the at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject at different times.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the two fixing members is attached to the sensor.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the two fixing members are coupled to the support.   The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the two fixing members are movably mounted on the support.   9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the support comprises at least one knee support that supports at least one knee of the subject during use.   The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the knee support is movably mounted on the support. a) monitor the signal from the at least one sensor;
b) using the signal at least in part to generate an indicator indicating the strength of the at least one knee flexor;
The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an electronic processing device. The indicator is
a) Instantaneous force b) Force generation speed c) Average force d) Peak force e) Impulse f) Action g) Instantaneous torque h) Torque generation speed i) Average torque j) Change in force with time k) Change in torque with time The apparatus of claim 11, wherein l) exhibits at least one of the peak torques. The electronic processing device includes:
a) comparing at least part of the signal with reference data;
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein b) generating the indicator according to the result of the comparison. The reference data is
a) Tolerance determined from the regular population,
b) a predetermined range;
c) predetermined criteria d) last generated indicator,
14. The apparatus of claim 13, comprising at least one of the indicators generated for e) the other leg. The indicator is
a) at least part of the signal and the reference data;
15. An apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein b) indicates at least part of the signal and a difference between the reference data.   The apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 15, further comprising an output unit for giving at least the indicator to the subject. The output unit is
a) Light emitting diode (LED)
b) an acoustic member,
The apparatus of claim 16, wherein c) a digital display d) at least one of electronic signal emitting members. The output unit is
18. Apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, wherein a) light b) sound c) at least one alphabetic character d) graph e) picture f) wireless electronic signal g) at least one of wired electronic signals is generated.   The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising an input unit through which a user can input data. The input unit is
20. The device of claim 19, comprising at least one of a) a keypad b) a keyboard c) a touch screen d) a button e) a switch.   The support is long, the two fixing members are provided at a first end of the long support, and the second end of the long support supports the weight of the subject. The apparatus according to one item. The sensor is
21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, comprising: a) a load cell, b) a force plate, c) a piezo force sensor, d) a strain gauge, e) a water pressure gauge.   23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the sensor detects either a compressive force or a tension. The two fixing members are:
24. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23, comprising a) a strap, b) a cuff, c) any of the strings.   25. The sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the sensor detects a force indicating hamstring strength of at least one leg of the subject while the subject is performing a Nordic hamstring exercise. Equipment.   26. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the at least one knee flexor includes at least a hamstring muscle. A device used to evaluate a subject's muscle strength,
a) support,
b) two securing members that constrain each movement of the subject's lower leg relative to the support;
c) an apparatus comprising at least one sensor for detecting, during use, a force indicative of muscle strength while the subject is performing a muscle exercise that exerts a certain force. A method of assessing a subject's hamstring muscle strength using a device having a support, two fixation members and at least one sensor comprising:
a) using the fixing member to fix both lower legs of the subject in a position fixed in use relative to the support;
b) detecting a force indicative of the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of at least one leg of the subject using the sensor while the subject is performing at least a contraction of the hamstring muscle. How to prepare.   The at least one sensor includes two sensors, and the two sensors are respectively coupled to the two fixing members, and the method indicates the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject. 30. The method of claim 28, further comprising sensing a force.   The detecting the force indicating the strength of at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject includes simultaneously detecting the force indicating the strength of the at least one knee flexor muscle of each leg of the subject. 30. The method according to 29.   Detecting a force indicating the strength of at least one knee flexor of at least one leg of the subject detects a force indicating the strength of the hamstring muscle while the subject is performing a Nordic hamstring exercise. 31. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, comprising: The apparatus further comprises an electronic processing device, the method comprising:
a) monitoring a signal from said at least one sensor;
32. The method of any one of claims 28-31, further comprising: b) using the signal at least in part to generate an indicator that indicates at least hamstring muscle strength relative to the hamstring muscle. a) comparing at least a portion of the signal with reference data;
36. The method of claim 32, further comprising: b) generating the indicator according to the result of the comparison.   34. A method according to claim 32 or 33, further comprising providing at least the indicator at an output to a user.

Images